“Art For Non-Artists.” That’s what the class was called. It was being offered at a local community center, and I signed up with my friend Lisa who wanted to take the class with a friend. I was 25 years old, years away from discovering my creative callings, and certainly NOWHERE near identifying as an artist. I was a full-time Medical Social Worker at the time, but there was a TINY, barely noticeable whisper, to do something creative.
I was struggling with depression during this time in my life. Like so many 20-somethings, I was finding my way in the world. I had recently moved 3000 miles from home (FL) to Portland, OR. I had a hard time making new friends (this was before social media) and was struggling with Becoming. Who was I? Where was I going? Who are my people?
Anyway, each week Lisa and I would show up to the Art For Non-Artists class. I don’t remember much of the art projects, but I do remember feeling really good about being with my friend and just making stuff.
John must have seen me light up a bit because I came home one day to find that he had carved out a little tiny art nook in our tiny home for me.
That is love, ya’ll. I don’t remember actually ever using the tiny art nook (the time just wasn’t ripe yet for me), but all of these years later I am reminded that often it is others who often see – well before we do – what possibilities live inside of us.
Many moons later, I know this to be true: If you don’t consider yourself an artist, but you feel drawn to other people’s art, please take notice. I believe that everything we find “beautiful” is actually a quiet whisper, calling us toward the life that is waiting for us.
I hung out on the “non-artist” realm until I finally started playing with paint, at age 30. That was when everything changed and opened up for me. My life has literally never been the same.
That same creative expansion and opening is possible for you. Hello Soul, Hello Mixed-Media Mantras is an online painting course for people who love soul work as much as art work. When you’re ready to answer the call, I’d be honored to guide you into a fun, soulful, no-mistakes way of painting. No experience needed.
Your soul has a mantra. Let’s paint it together.
